The SDL have said they will disregard the committee’s ruling and it is thought the force will be ready to deploy extra officers in the city centre on September 1 should members of the group converge on the city.

With an authorised protest now unlikely, Tayside Police are set to assess the knock-on effect of the licensing committee’s decision.

A spokesman said: ”We will fully consider the implications of the decision and continue to work closely with Dundee City Council to ensure that any possible future scenarios are properly assessed and managed.

”The Scottish Police Service has successfully policed similar type demonstrations in other parts of the country in the recent past and Tayside Police have been involved with other forces in the planning and implementation of an effective policing response to these events.

”Tayside Police respect the licensing decision and will facilitate lawful and peaceful protest where required.”

An application by the SDL to gather in the City Square was turned down by members of Dundee’s licensing committee last week on the grounds that it would be an inappropriate use of the area.

But following that decision a spokesman for the group, which claims to stand against ”militant Islam”, said that a demonstration will take place regardless.

Believed to have around 15 members in Dundee, more than 100 could travel from other areas.

Last month the SDL rallied in Edinburgh where a simultaneous counter-protest was held by a group called United Against Fascism.

Despite this, Lothian and Borders Police said the event passed off without incident and no arrests.